Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A drop cart processing system for automated casino accounting, comprising: an access control robot; a document processing robot; a memory; and a processor that executes instructions in the memory to: select at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox positioned in at least one compartment defined by a drop cart for processing; position the access control robot according to the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox; open the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox using the access control robot; position the document processing robot according to the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox; and extract at least one document stack from the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox using the document processing robot; wherein: the access control robot unlocks the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox as part of opening the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox; and the access control robot includes: a first mechanism operable to unlock the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox; and a second mechanism operable to open the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox.
Technology Domain: Casino Automation and Accounting Problem Solved: Efficient and automated processing of cash and documents from electronic gaming machine cashboxes in a casino environment. Summary: This invention describes a system for automated casino accounting that handles drop carts containing electronic gaming machine cashboxes. The system comprises an access control robot, a document processing robot, a memory, and a processor. The processor executes instructions to manage the entire process. The system first identifies and selects at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox located within a compartment of a drop cart. Once selected, the access control robot is positioned to interact with the cashbox. This robot is responsible for unlocking and then opening the cashbox. The access control robot is equipped with a first mechanism specifically for unlocking the cashbox and a second mechanism for physically opening it. Following the opening of the cashbox, the document processing robot is positioned. This robot then extracts at least one stack of documents from the now-open cashbox. The overall system automates the secure retrieval of cashbox contents, streamlining casino accounting procedures.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein: the first mechanism is further operable to lock the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox; and the second mechanism is further operable to close the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox.
This invention relates to a system for securing and managing electronic gaming machine cashboxes. The system addresses the need for enhanced security and automated control of cashboxes in gaming environments, where unauthorized access or improper handling can lead to financial losses or regulatory violations. The system includes a first mechanism designed to lock the cashbox of an electronic gaming machine, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access the contents. This locking mechanism prevents tampering or theft while the cashbox is in use or during transport. Additionally, the system features a second mechanism that closes the cashbox, ensuring that it is properly sealed before being locked. This closing mechanism may involve automated or manual processes to ensure the cashbox is securely shut, reducing the risk of accidental or intentional opening. The system may also include a controller that coordinates the operation of the locking and closing mechanisms, ensuring that the cashbox is closed before it is locked. This coordination prevents errors and enhances security by enforcing a standardized procedure. The system may further integrate with other security features, such as sensors or authentication systems, to verify the status of the cashbox and authorize access only to approved individuals. Overall, the invention provides a robust solution for securing electronic gaming machine cashboxes, reducing the risk of theft, tampering, and operational errors in gaming environments.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first mechanism inserts at least one key into at least one located lock.
The invention relates to a system for automated key insertion into locks, addressing the challenge of efficiently and accurately inserting keys into locks in environments where manual operation is impractical or inefficient. The system includes a first mechanism designed to insert at least one key into at least one lock that has been precisely located. The first mechanism ensures proper alignment and insertion of the key into the lock, minimizing errors and improving operational reliability. The system may also include a second mechanism for locating the lock, which identifies the exact position of the lock to facilitate accurate key insertion. This second mechanism may use sensors or imaging technology to detect the lock's location and orientation. The system is particularly useful in automated environments such as smart locks, security systems, or industrial applications where precise and repeatable key insertion is required. The invention enhances automation by reducing human intervention and improving the speed and accuracy of key-lock interactions.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor closes the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox using the access control robot after extraction of the at least one document stack.
This invention relates to automated systems for managing cashboxes in electronic gaming machines, specifically addressing the need for secure and efficient document handling during cashbox extraction. The system includes a processor-controlled access control robot that interacts with the cashbox of an electronic gaming machine. The robot is designed to extract at least one stack of documents, such as currency or tickets, from the cashbox. After extraction, the processor directs the robot to close the cashbox to ensure security and prevent unauthorized access. The system may also include sensors or imaging devices to verify the contents of the cashbox before and after extraction, ensuring accurate documentation and accounting. The robot may be equipped with gripping mechanisms or other tools to handle the document stacks safely and precisely. The invention aims to automate and streamline cashbox management in gaming environments, reducing human intervention and minimizing errors or security risks. The system may be integrated with broader casino management software to track cashbox status, document extraction logs, and access permissions. The processor controls all operations, including robot movement, cashbox locking/unlocking, and data recording, ensuring a seamless and secure process.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor uses the document processing robot to provide the at least one document stack to at least one of: a document sorting mechanism; a jogging mechanism; a document counting mechanism; a document binding mechanism; a document banding system; a document jogger; a document sorter; a currency counter; a document bundling mechanism; a collection station; or a document hopper.
This invention relates to automated document processing systems designed to handle high volumes of documents efficiently. The system addresses the challenge of manually sorting, counting, and preparing documents for further processing, which is time-consuming and prone to errors. The core system includes a document processing robot that automates the handling of document stacks. The robot is capable of delivering these stacks to various downstream processing mechanisms. These mechanisms include document sorting systems to organize documents by type or criteria, jogging mechanisms to align documents for consistent stacking, counting mechanisms to tally documents accurately, binding mechanisms to secure documents together, banding systems to apply bands for bundling, document bundling mechanisms to group documents, and collection stations or hoppers for temporary storage. The system also supports currency counters for financial document processing. By integrating these functions, the invention streamlines document workflows, reduces manual labor, and improves processing speed and accuracy. The robot's ability to interface with multiple mechanisms ensures flexibility in handling different document types and processing requirements.
6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor transmits a notification signal that the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox is empty.
This invention relates to electronic gaming machine (EGM) monitoring systems designed to enhance operational efficiency in casinos or gaming environments. The system addresses the problem of manual cashbox monitoring, which is time-consuming and prone to errors, leading to potential revenue loss or service disruptions. The system includes a processor connected to at least one EGM cashbox, which continuously monitors the cashbox status. When the processor detects that the cashbox is empty, it automatically transmits a notification signal to alert relevant personnel. This ensures timely refilling, minimizing downtime and maintaining smooth gaming operations. The system may also include additional features such as real-time cashbox level tracking, automated alerts for low cash levels, and integration with casino management software for centralized monitoring. By automating cashbox monitoring, the system improves efficiency, reduces labor costs, and enhances overall casino operations.
7. A drop cart processing system for automated casino accounting, comprising: an access control robot; a document processing robot; a memory; and a processor that executes instructions in the memory to: select at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox positioned in at least one compartment defined by a drop cart for processing; position the access control robot according to the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox; open the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox using the access control robot; position the document processing robot according to the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox; and extract at least one document stack from the at least one electronic gaming machine cashbox using the document processing robot; wherein: the processor transmits a notification signal to move the drop cart after extraction of the at least one document stack.
The invention relates to automated casino accounting systems, specifically for processing drop carts containing electronic gaming machine cashboxes. The system addresses the inefficiency and manual labor required in traditional casino cash handling, where cashboxes from gaming machines must be collected, opened, and processed for accounting purposes. The system automates this workflow using robotic components and computational control. The system includes an access control robot, a document processing robot, a memory, and a processor. The processor selects a cashbox within a drop cart compartment for processing. The access control robot is positioned relative to the selected cashbox, then opens it. The document processing robot is then positioned to extract document stacks, such as receipts or financial records, from the opened cashbox. After extraction, the processor sends a notification signal to move the drop cart to the next processing stage or location. The system ensures secure, automated handling of casino cashbox contents, reducing human intervention and improving accounting accuracy. The robots and processor work in coordination to streamline the cashbox processing workflow, enhancing efficiency in casino operations.
8. A drop cart for automated casino accounting, comprising: a housing frame that defines at least a first compartment and a second compartment; a first cashbox data receiver configured to communicably couple with a first cashbox data receiver of a first electronic gaming machine cashbox positioned in the first compartment in order to obtain first data corresponding to a first stack of documents contained by the first electronic gaming machine cashbox; a second cashbox data receiver configured to communicably couple with a second cashbox data receiver of a second electronic gaming machine cashbox positioned in the second compartment in order to obtain second data corresponding to a second stack of documents contained by the second electronic gaming machine cashbox; and a processor configured to transmit the first data and the second data.
The invention relates to automated casino accounting systems, specifically a drop cart designed to streamline the collection and transmission of financial data from electronic gaming machines. The device addresses inefficiencies in manual cash handling by automating the retrieval and processing of transaction records from gaming machine cashboxes. The drop cart includes a housing frame with at least two compartments, each configured to hold a cashbox from an electronic gaming machine. Each compartment contains a data receiver that interfaces with a corresponding data receiver on the cashbox, allowing the cart to retrieve data from stacks of documents (such as bills or receipts) stored inside. The system captures data from multiple cashboxes simultaneously, improving workflow efficiency. A processor within the cart processes the collected data and transmits it to a central accounting system for reconciliation. This automation reduces human error and speeds up the accounting process, ensuring accurate financial tracking in casino operations. The design supports scalable deployment across multiple gaming machines, enhancing operational efficiency in large-scale casino environments.
9. The drop cart of claim 8 , wherein the processor transmits the first data and the second data to a casino accounting system.
A drop cart system is used in casinos to securely transport cash and other valuables from gaming tables to a central counting location. The system includes a cart with a locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized access, a processor for tracking the contents, and a display for user interaction. The processor records transaction data, such as the amount of cash deposited, the time of deposit, and the identity of the gaming table or slot machine. The system also generates a unique identifier for each transaction to ensure traceability. The processor transmits this transaction data to a casino accounting system, allowing for real-time reconciliation and auditing. The cart may also include sensors to detect tampering or unauthorized movement. The system improves security and efficiency by automating the tracking and reporting of cash drops, reducing the risk of errors or theft. The processor ensures that all data is securely logged and transmitted, providing an audit trail for regulatory compliance. The system is designed to integrate with existing casino management software, streamlining financial operations.
10. The drop cart of claim 8 , further comprising at least one sensor configured to detect insertion of: the first electronic gaming machine cashbox into the first compartment; or the second electronic gaming machine cashbox into the second compartment.
This invention relates to a drop cart for securely transporting and storing cashboxes from electronic gaming machines (EGMs). The drop cart addresses the need for a secure, organized system to handle multiple cashboxes, reducing the risk of theft or mishandling during transport. The cart includes a first compartment for holding a first EGM cashbox and a second compartment for holding a second EGM cashbox, ensuring separation and protection of the cashboxes. Each compartment is designed to securely lock the cashbox in place, preventing unauthorized access. The cart also features at least one sensor that detects when a cashbox is inserted into either compartment. This sensor can trigger alerts, logging, or other security measures to confirm proper placement and prevent tampering. The cart may also include additional compartments for storing other items, such as tools or documentation, and may be equipped with wheels for easy mobility. The sensor system enhances security by ensuring that cashboxes are properly secured before transport, reducing the risk of loss or theft during handling.
11. The drop cart of claim 10 , wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one of: a pushbutton switch; a magnetic reed switch; a photo interrupter; or a capacitive sensor.
A drop cart system is designed to facilitate the automated transfer of items between different levels in a storage or retrieval system, such as a vertical lift module (VLM) or automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS). The system addresses the challenge of efficiently and accurately detecting the presence or absence of items in the drop cart to ensure proper handling and prevent errors during transfer operations. The drop cart includes at least one sensor configured to detect the presence of an item within the cart. The sensor may be selected from various types, including a pushbutton switch, a magnetic reed switch, a photo interrupter, or a capacitive sensor. Each sensor type provides a distinct method of detection: a pushbutton switch may be mechanically actuated by the item, a magnetic reed switch may detect the proximity of a magnetic field, a photo interrupter may sense light interruption caused by the item, and a capacitive sensor may detect changes in capacitance due to the item's presence. These sensors enable the system to reliably determine whether an item is properly positioned in the drop cart before initiating transfer operations, thereby improving operational accuracy and reducing the risk of misplacement or damage. The system may also include additional features, such as a locking mechanism to secure the item during transfer and a control system to manage sensor inputs and coordinate movements.
12. The drop cart of claim 8 , wherein the first cashbox data receiver is configured to obtain the first data upon insertion of the first electronic gaming machine cashbox into the first compartment.
A drop cart is used in gaming environments to securely transport cashboxes from electronic gaming machines to a central location for processing. The problem addressed is the need for automated data collection from cashboxes when they are placed into the drop cart, ensuring accurate tracking and reducing manual handling errors. The drop cart includes compartments for holding cashboxes from electronic gaming machines. Each compartment has a data receiver that automatically retrieves data from the cashbox when it is inserted. The data receiver is configured to obtain information such as transaction logs, monetary amounts, or machine identification details from the cashbox upon insertion. This eliminates the need for manual data entry, improving efficiency and accuracy in cash handling. The system may also include additional features such as locking mechanisms to secure the cashboxes during transport and interfaces for transferring the collected data to a central management system. The automated data collection ensures real-time tracking of cashbox contents, enhancing security and operational oversight in gaming environments.
13. The drop cart of claim 8 , further comprising an input device wherein the first cashbox data receiver is configured to obtain the first data in response to input received via the input device.
A drop cart system is designed to facilitate secure and efficient cash handling in retail environments. The system addresses challenges in manually transferring cash from point-of-sale terminals to a secure cashbox, reducing errors and improving security. The drop cart includes a cashbox data receiver that retrieves data from a cashbox, such as transaction details or authentication information, to verify the cashbox's contents. The system ensures that only authorized cashboxes are processed, preventing unauthorized access or tampering. The drop cart further includes an input device, such as a keypad or touchscreen, that allows users to interact with the system. The cashbox data receiver is configured to obtain data from the cashbox in response to input received via this input device. This interaction may involve entering authentication codes, confirming transactions, or initiating data transfers. The input device enhances security by requiring user verification before data retrieval, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access or modify cashbox information. The system streamlines cash handling workflows while maintaining strict security protocols.
14. The drop cart of claim 8 , wherein the first cashbox data receiver is configured to obtain the first data while the drop cart is in motion.
A drop cart system is used in retail environments to securely transport cash and other valuables from point-of-sale locations to a central processing area. A common challenge is ensuring data integrity and security during transit, particularly when transferring transaction data from cashboxes to the cart. This invention addresses the problem by enabling real-time data acquisition while the cart is in motion, reducing delays and improving operational efficiency. The drop cart includes a first cashbox data receiver designed to retrieve transaction data from a cashbox while the cart is moving. This eliminates the need for the cart to stop or for manual intervention, streamlining the process. The system may also include a second cashbox data receiver for additional cashboxes, ensuring comprehensive data collection. The cart may further incorporate a data storage module to securely store the acquired data and a communication module to transmit it to a central system. The cart may also have a locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized access to the stored cash and data. The invention improves security, reduces handling time, and enhances the reliability of data transfer in retail environments.
15. The drop cart of claim 8 , wherein the processor associates: a first timestamp with the first data obtained by the first cashbox data receiver; and a second timestamp with the second data obtained by the second cashbox data receiver.
A system for managing financial transactions in a retail environment involves a drop cart equipped with multiple cashbox data receivers to collect transaction data from different cashboxes. The system addresses the challenge of accurately tracking and synchronizing transaction data from multiple sources in real-time. The drop cart includes a processor that processes data from at least two cashboxes, each associated with a different cashbox data receiver. The processor associates a first timestamp with data obtained from the first cashbox and a second timestamp with data obtained from the second cashbox. This timestamping ensures that transaction data from different cashboxes is time-stamped independently, allowing for precise synchronization and reconciliation of financial records. The system may also include additional features such as data validation, error detection, and integration with a central database to maintain accurate financial records across multiple cashboxes. The drop cart's design enables seamless data collection and processing, improving efficiency and reducing discrepancies in financial transactions.
16. The drop cart of claim 8 , further comprising at least one retaining and releasing feature operable to secure the first electronic gaming machine cashbox in the first compartment.
This invention relates to a drop cart designed for securely transporting and managing cashboxes used in electronic gaming machines. The primary problem addressed is the need for a secure, organized, and efficient system to handle cashboxes, which contain cash and other valuables, within a gaming environment. The drop cart includes a first compartment specifically configured to hold a first electronic gaming machine cashbox. To enhance security and prevent unauthorized removal, the cart is equipped with at least one retaining and releasing feature. This feature ensures the cashbox remains securely locked within the compartment during transport and storage, while also allowing authorized personnel to release and access the cashbox when needed. The retaining and releasing mechanism may include locks, latches, or other secure fastening systems that can be operated manually or electronically. The drop cart may also include additional compartments for storing multiple cashboxes, as well as other features such as wheels for mobility, handles for maneuvering, and locking mechanisms to secure the entire cart. The design prioritizes both security and ease of use, ensuring that cashboxes are protected while also being accessible to authorized personnel in a controlled manner. This system is particularly useful in casinos or other gaming facilities where secure cash handling is critical.
17. The drop cart of claim 8 , wherein the first data includes at least one of: an identifier associated with the first electronic gaming machine cashbox; an identifier for an electronic gaming machine from which the first electronic gaming machine cashbox was retrieved; an address associated with the electronic gaming machine; a listing of the first stack of documents; a set of images of the first stack of documents; a count of the first stack of documents; a set of serial numbers of the first stack of documents; a total currency value of the first stack of documents; or a sum total of currency notes in the first stack of documents.
This invention relates to a drop cart system for managing cashboxes from electronic gaming machines (EGMs). The system addresses the need for secure, automated tracking of cashbox contents during transport and processing. The drop cart includes a compartment for holding a cashbox containing a stack of documents, such as currency notes, and a data storage device for recording information about the cashbox and its contents. The recorded data includes identifiers for the cashbox or the EGM from which it was retrieved, the EGM's address, a listing or images of the documents, a count of the documents, their serial numbers, the total currency value, or the sum of individual notes. This data ensures traceability and accuracy in cash handling, reducing errors and fraud. The system may also include sensors to detect the presence of the cashbox and validate its contents before transport. The drop cart may be part of a larger networked system for monitoring cashbox movements across multiple EGMs in a casino or gaming facility. The invention improves efficiency and security in cash management by automating data collection and verification processes.
18. The drop cart of claim 8 , wherein the housing frame is moveable by wheels or casters that support the housing frame.
A drop cart system is designed to facilitate the transport and positioning of heavy or bulky items, particularly in industrial or warehouse settings. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently moving such items without requiring manual lifting or specialized equipment. The drop cart includes a housing frame that supports the load and is equipped with wheels or casters to enable mobility. These wheels or casters are positioned to support the housing frame, allowing it to be easily maneuvered across a workspace. The housing frame may also include features such as adjustable legs or stabilizers to secure the cart in place when needed. The wheels or casters may be lockable to prevent unintended movement during loading or unloading. The system may also incorporate additional components, such as a lifting mechanism or a tilting platform, to assist in transferring the load from the cart to its final destination. The overall design prioritizes stability, ease of movement, and adaptability to different load sizes and weights.
Unknown
August 25, 2020
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